51 pages • 1 hour read
Lieutenant Nun
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Book Brief
128
Biography • Nonfiction
Spain, South America • Early 1600s
1997
Adult
16+ years
Super Short Summary
Lieutenant Nun: The True Story of a Cross-Dressing, Transatlantic Adventurer Who Escaped From a Spanish Convent in 1599 and Lived as a Man by Michele Stepto and Gabri Stepto explores the remarkable life of Catalina de Erauso, who escaped from a convent, adopted a male identity, and embarked on adventurous journeys across the Atlantic, challenging gender norms and societal expectations of the 17th century.
Adventurous
Mysterious
Gritty
Inspirational
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
1,470 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Lieutenant Nun offers a fascinating glimpse into the audacious life of Catalina de Erauso, blending historical intrigue with themes of gender identity. While some readers appreciate the adventurous narrative and its transgender context, others find the authenticity of the account debatable. The book raises questions about identity and historical narrative authenticity.
Who Should Read Lieutenant Nun?
Readers who enjoy Lieutenant Nun are intrigued by historical adventures, gender identity exploration, and cross-dressing narratives. Fans of The Memoirs of Herculine Barbin or Pope Joan will appreciate its blend of history and personal transformation, set against a vibrant 17th-century backdrop.
1,470 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Miguel de Erauso
Miguel de Erauso
Catalina's brother who unknowingly meets and bonds with her while they are both in the military in South America, contributing to key narrative developments.
Bishop Agustín de Carvajal
Bishop Agustín de Carvajal
The senior bishop of Guamanga to whom Catalina confesses her true identity, affecting a major turning point in her life and story.
Doña Beatriz de Cárdenas
Doña Beatriz de Cárdenas
A woman of rank who interacts with Catalina through her frequent purchases and forward behavior, adding a layer of humor with her advances.
The Cid
The Cid
A formidable opponent known for his physical prowess and silent demeanor, his encounter with Catalina leads to significant consequences in her story.
128
Biography • Nonfiction
Spain, South America • Early 1600s
1997
Adult
16+ years
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